Discover Reykjavik’s best bars:
- 1. Best Bar for Beer Nerds: Skúli Craft Bar
- 2. Best Gay Bar: Kiki Queer Bar
- 3. Best Bar for Cocktails: Snaps Bistro
- 4. Best Bar for Meeting Locals: Prikid
- 5. Best Bar for Live Music: Húrra
- 6. Best Theme Bar: Lebowski Bar
- 7. Best Bar for Fun-Loving Bartenders: Kaffibarinn
- 8. Best Bar for Meeting Fellow Travelers: Kex
- 9. Best Bar for Fancy Happy Hour: Rok
- 10. Best Wine Bar: Port 9
The drinks may be expensive in Reykjavik, but the bar culture is something to be experienced. Moreover, there are plenty of happy hours around the city that make heading out well worth it and a little easier on the wallet. Despite Reykjavik’s relatively remote location, bartenders, brewers, and mixologists are crafting creative cocktails and brews that rival those of any major city worldwide.
Furthermore, Iceland’s bar culture is thriving: a decade ago, wine bars were scarce and cocktail selections limited, aside from the local Brennivin. Today, if you stroll down the street during happy hour—generally between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.—you’ll discover innumerable bar choices to explore. In just a few hours, you could enjoy an inventive Brennivin cocktail, a White Russian topped with cereal, and even a glass of Iceland’s only local wine. Whether looking for a night of dancing to retro hits or a classic cocktail experience, Reykjavik will not disappoint.
1. Best Bar for Beer Nerds: Skúli Craft Bar
Address
Aðalstræti 9, 101, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 519 6455
Skúli features a daily happy hour from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., which is essential for tasting some of the nation’s best (and priciest) beers. The bar has 14 taps, mostly featuring local brews, and offers over 100 different canned varieties.
2. Best Gay Bar: Kiki Queer Bar
Address
Laugavegur 22, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
If you’re looking to dance the night away while mixing with new friends, Kiki Queer Bar is a vibrant spot located on one of Reykjavik’s busiest streets, ideal for grabbing a post-bar snack. Expect a lively playlist of pop hits along with nostalgic favorites.
3. Best Bar for Cocktails: Snaps Bistro
Address
Þórsgata 1, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 511 6677
Snaps is renowned for its gin and tonics, with a dedicated menu for this classic drink. They also prepare excellent cocktails, including Tom Collins and Kir Royal.
4. Best Bar for Meeting Locals: Prikid
Address
Bankastræti 12, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 551 2866
Prikid is the go-to spot for hip-hop fans, especially Icelandic hip-hop. During the day, it offers a popular burger special, while nights are filled with locals enjoying music and fun. As one of the city’s oldest bars, it is a must-visit.
5. Best Bar for Live Music: Húrra
Address
Hverfisgata 18a, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 571 7101
Located near the harbor, Húrra boasts an ideal setup for live performances, featuring a spacious bar and dance area. The venue hosts both local and international acts, offering a unique atmosphere that shifts with the night’s entertainment.
6. Best Theme Bar: Lebowski Bar
Address
Laugavegur 20a, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 552 2300
Inspired by the cult classic film “The Big Lebowski,” this bar features decor reminiscent of a bowling alley. It offers four themed areas, including a 1960s lounge and a traditional diner, complete with an extensive menu dedicated to White Russians.
7. Best Bar for Fun-Loving Bartenders: Kaffibarinn
Address
Bergstaðastræti 1, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 888 1193
During the day, Kaffibarinn appears as a quaint cafe, yet transforms into a bustling nightlife venue with warm and welcoming bartenders. It offers a variety of drinks and is among the best spots in the city for DJ sets.
8. Best Bar for Meeting Fellow Travelers: Kex
Address
Skúlagata 28, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 561 6060
Kex is a vibrant hostel located by the harbor, featuring a bar favored by locals. Originally a biscuit factory, it offers both shared and private rooms, and serves excellent food alongside local beers and cocktails. The communal tables are perfect for meeting fellow travelers.
9. Best Bar for Fancy Happy Hour: Rok
Address
Frakkastígur 26a, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 544 4443
Rok is primarily known as an exquisite restaurant, but its champagne happy hour is not to be missed. Patrons can enjoy an exceptional dining experience with unique champagne pairings featuring liquorice and cantaloupe.
10. Best Wine Bar: Port 9
Address
Veghúsarstígur 9, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
Phone: +354 832 2929
For an extensive selection, Port 9 is unparalleled. Unlike most establishments offering limited wine selections, Port 9 features a comprehensive array ranging from sparkling to grenache. Additionally, their special wine list presented in a stunning handwritten, gold-leaf booklet is a true highlight.
